[Nickon]

I have a 435i x-drive and im running some pretty cheap summer tires. I was wondering if having x-drive would be sufficient enough to drive to big bear and those sorts of mountains. I was hoping to not have to replace my tires for some all season or higher quality tires. Big bear gets snow but nothing like mammoth and lake tahoe mountains. Any insight on my dilemma?

[sygazelle]

Summer tires are horrible in the snow. X-drive may help, but the design of the tire is the real issue.

If chains are not required, I might think about it and be very careful. If chains are required, I personally would not take the chance.

Here is an article that spells out the dramatic difference in the performance of snow, all-season, and summer tires in the snow.

http://www.edmunds.com/car-reviews/f...vs-summer.html

There are great all season choices. I used to buy summer high or ultra high performance. I switched to highly-rated all season tires and and they are just fine for how I drive. You, of course, have to decide for yourself. Such problems to have

Good luck! Have fun at Big Bear.

[eluded]

Pick up an extra set of rims and mount some decent snow tires on.